How much does it cost to replace a starter on a Silverado?
Replacing the starter on your Chevrolet Silverado is a common repair that many truck owners face over time. The starter is a crucial component of your vehicle's ignition system, and when it fails, your truck won't start. In this article, we'll break down the costs associated with replacing a starter on a Silverado, factors that influence the price, and tips to save money on this repair.
What Is the Average Cost of Replacing a Starter?
The cost to replace a starter on a Chevrolet Silverado typically ranges between $400 and $700. This price includes both parts and labor. Here's a breakdown of the costs:
- Parts: The starter itself usually costs between $150 and $400, depending on the brand and quality.
- Labor: Labor costs can range from $150 to $300, depending on the shop's hourly rate and the complexity of the job.
Keep in mind that these are average estimates, and the actual cost may vary based on your location, the specific Silverado model, and the repair shop you choose.
Factors That Influence the Cost
Several factors can affect the total cost of replacing a starter on your Silverado:
- Model Year: Older Silverado models may have less expensive parts, while newer models with advanced technology might require pricier components.
- Aftermarket vs. OEM Parts: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are typically more expensive than aftermarket options, but they often come with better warranties and reliability.
- Labor Rates: Labor costs vary by region and repair shop. Urban areas with higher living costs often have higher labor rates.
- Additional Repairs: If other components, such as wiring or the battery, are damaged, the overall cost may increase.
How to Save Money on Starter Replacement
Here are some tips to help you save money when replacing your Silverado's starter:
- Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple repair shops to find the best price for parts and labor.
- Consider Aftermarket Parts: High-quality aftermarket starters can be a cost-effective alternative to OEM parts.
- DIY Repair: If you have the tools and expertise, replacing the starter yourself can save on labor costs. However, this is only recommended for experienced DIYers.
- Regular Maintenance: Keeping your truck's electrical system in good condition can help prevent starter issues in the first place.
Conclusion
Replacing a starter on a Chevrolet Silverado is a relatively straightforward repair, but the costs can add up depending on the parts and labor involved. By understanding the factors that influence the price and taking steps to save money, you can ensure that your truck is back on the road without breaking the bank. If you're in need of professional assistance, don't hesitate to contact Kevin's Autos for reliable and affordable auto repair services!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of a bad starter?
What Are Common Bad Starter Symptoms?
- Something sounds off.
- You've got lights but no action.
- Your engine won't crank.
- Smoke is coming from your car.
- Oil has soaked the starter.
- Look under the hood.
- Tap the starter.
- Adjust the transmission.
How long does it take a mechanic to replace a starter?
A failed starter stands in the way of using your vehicle at all, and once it's beginning to go, a replacement is the best way to restore its function. It can take an hour or more to replace the starter, and along with the average parts range of $100 to $400, it's going to take from one hour and up to install it.
What are the signs of a bad starter?
You push the start button or turn the key, and your engine refuses to crank. You could hear a clanking or clicking noise each time you turn the key, or you could hear nothing at all. If this happens, you most likely have a problem with the key part of your starter system.
Can you jump start a car with a bad starter?
You can try to jump-start your car even when the starter is bad, and sometimes the extra current from an additional battery will spin a starter that is getting weak. While there's no guarantee it will work, it might be worth giving it a try, especially if you have to make that urgent trip.
What can be mistaken for a bad starter?
Check the battery and battery cables to see whether everything's in working order. A weak or dead battery, or even faulty battery cables, could be causing the problems with your car, not the starter.
What is a fair price to replace a starter?
The average cost for starter replacement is $728 to $820. Enter your vehicle's information to see how much starter repair costs in your local area.
Can you jump-start a car with a bad starter?
You can try to jump-start your car even when the starter is bad, and sometimes the extra current from an additional battery will spin a starter that is getting weak. While there's no guarantee it will work, it might be worth giving it a try, especially if you have to make that urgent trip.
How do I know if my Silverado starter is bad?
Bad Starter Symptoms
- DASH LIGHTS. The dashboard warning lights come on when you try to turn on your car, but the engine does not crank or spin over.
- CLICKING. If you experience the dreaded “clicking” noise when you try to turn the key, this is a good sign of starter failure.
- SLOW CRANKING.
- SMOKE.
- OIL-SOAKED STARTER.
At what mileage does a starter go bad?
100,000 to 200,000 miles
The average starter lasts for 100,000 to 200,000 miles or 80,000 to 100,000 starts. The exact length of time a starter lasts depends on the engine's design, the driving habits of the owner, the conditions under which the vehicle is used, and other factors.
Is replacing a starter motor a big job?
Replacing a starter motor isn't the simplest job for a mechanic. Quite often, there are a lot of components to get past to access it. It can take a good couple of hours to clear the way, remove it, pop its replacement in place and put everything back together again.
